Abstract: A micromachined mechanism for a sensing tool includes a support, a probe pivotally mounted with respect to the support, and a beam connected to the support and the probe. The probe is configured to apply a load (Ftool) on a body and to be subjected to a counter-reaction contact force exerted by the body in reaction to the load. The beam is configured to shift from an undeformed position to a deformed position when the contact force of the body is greater than a predetermined threshold force (Fcrit) for which the beam buckles.

Abstract: Sensor system comprising a frame supporting a force-sensing tip arranged to generate a signal based upon a force applied by said force-sensing tip to a material to be tested, the system further comprising: an input drum mounted in said frame such that it can rotate about an input axis of rotation; an output lever supported by said frame by means of an output revolute joint defining an output axis of rotation; wherein said force-sensing tip is mounted on said output lever such that said force-sensing tip is arranged to be brought into contact with a material to be tested; and wherein said sensor system comprises a mechanical transmission arranged to kinematically link said input drum to said output lever such that a rotation of said input drum about said input axis of rotation causes said output lever to pivot in an oscillatory manner about said output axis of rotation.

Abstract: Sensor system comprising a frame supporting a force-sensing tip arranged to generate a signal based upon a force applied by said force-sensing tip to a material to be tested, the system further comprising: an input drum mounted in said frame such that it can rotate about an input axis of rotation; an output lever supported by said frame by means of an output revolute joint defining an output axis of rotation; wherein said force-sensing tip is mounted on said output lever such that said force-sensing tip is arranged to be brought into contact with a material to be tested; and wherein said sensor system comprises a mechanical transmission arranged to kinematically link said input drum to said output lever such that a rotation of said input drum about said input axis of rotation causes said output lever to pivot in an oscillatory manner about said output axis of rotation.